The Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria, COSROPIN, recently organized a train ride and tour of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport in Abuja for older persons in the Federal Capital Territory. This event was part of the activities to commemorate this year’s United Nations International Day for Older Persons. The train ride started from the Abuja Metro Light Rail and took the older persons through several stops, including Kukwaba, Wupa, Bassanjiwa, Stadium, and Idu, before terminating at the airport.
During the event, Senator Eze Ajoku, President of COSROPIN, emphasized the importance of promoting healthy living among older persons. He stated that the train ride and airport tour aimed to enable older persons to socialize and network while engaging in healthy activities for graceful and healthy ageing. Senator Ajoku also advised older persons to prioritize their health and well-being. The event provided an opportunity for older persons to interact and engage in activities that promote their well-being.
The train ride and airport tour were a memorable experience for many of the older persons who participated. According to Senator Ajoku, some of the participants were excited to ride a train for the first time and see airplanes on the ground. The event was a unique opportunity for them to experience new things and create lasting memories. COSROPIN organized the event to promote the rights and well-being of older persons in Nigeria.
COSROPIN has planned several other activities to mark the United Nations International Day for Older Persons. In collaboration with the GYB Club at Yar’Adua Barracks, the organization will host a golf tournament for older persons aged 60 and above. Prizes will be awarded to participants, and a football match is scheduled for October 12, 2026, at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja. Additionally, a road walk is planned for October 15, 2026.
Senator Eze Ajoku appealed to the public to be kind and gracious to older persons, emphasizing their importance in Nigerian society. He noted that older persons harbor the history of the country and are the memory of the nation’s archives. Therefore, they deserve respect and their rights should be protected. COSROPIN will continue to promote programs and activities that improve the living conditions of older persons in Nigeria.
Some of the older persons who participated in the train ride and airport tour, including Mr. Kolade Bolarinwa, Hajiya Rakiya Abdulkareem, and Chief Chukwudi Okoli, commended COSROPIN for the event. They described it as a memorable experience and appealed to the Federal Government to provide free healthcare and transportation systems for older persons. This, they believe, will help cushion the effects of the current economic challenges.
The event was a significant milestone in the commemoration of the United Nations International Day for Older Persons. COSROPIN’s efforts to promote the rights and well-being of older persons in Nigeria are ongoing. The organization remains committed to improving the living conditions of older persons and advocating for their rights.
Key points
- COSROPIN organized a train ride and airport tour for older persons in Abuja to mark the UN International Day for Older Persons.
- The event aimed to promote healthy living and socialization among older persons.
- COSROPIN has planned additional activities, including a golf tournament, football match, and road walk, to mark the celebration.
